[Coronary revascularization surgery with arterial conduits. The technic, results and 4-year follow-up in 1023 consecutive patients]

Abstract

Objective: The main objective of the present study was to analyze the in-hospital and mid term results obtained in 1,023 consecutive patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) in whom a combination of arterial grafts was used: radial arteries (RA) and one or both internal mammary arteries (IMA).

Methods: From May 1995 to May 1998, 1,023 consecutive patients underwent CABG alone, using arterial conduits (AC) (one or two IMA and RA) for myocardial revascularization. The left internal mammary artery (LIMA) was employed as an "in situ" graft, and the right internal mammary artery (RIMA) as a free graft or "in situ" both in combination with the RA. The latter was connected to the LIMA through a T or Y anastomosis, or emerged directly from the ascending portion of the aorta.

Results: An average of 3.2 bypasses per patient were performed. The LIMA was used in 100% of the patients. The RIMA was used in 21.7% and the RA in 100% of the cases. Operative mortality was 2.5% (26 patients) and 32 (3.1%) suffered perioperative acute myocardial infarction. The first 62 patients were angiographically re-studied before discharge, and a 98.4% patency of the AC used was found. Mean follow up time was 25.0 +/- 9.6 months (range, 1 to 48 months).

Conclusions: a) myocardial revascularization procedures using a combination of mammary and RA grafts are safe; b) in-hospital and mid term morbidity and mortality are not higher than those observed with saphenous vein grafts; c) it is possible to achieve complete myocardial revascularization with only AC, even in patients with impaired left ventricular function, and d) AC can be used in elderly patients.